Finding the right employee for your organization or business is quite a daunting task. It's not uncommon for hiring managers to spend hours reading cover letters, sifting through resumes and interviewing potential candidates. However, if the position requires specific skills and knowledge, an employee proficiency test may be a useful tool in finding the right person for the job.

Proficiency Exams

An employee proficiency exam uses standardized testing to measure a potential employee's skill set and knowledge within a specialized area. For example, a business might test an employee's language skills for a position that involves writing, or spreadsheet skills for a bookkeeping position. These aptitude tests can be given prior to employment but also at certain points in an employee's time with the organization, such as during a review.

Purpose

There are many good reasons to use employee proficiency testing when evaluating potential job candidates. Proficiency exams can weed out the candidates who don't possess the knowledge or skills necessary to meet the job requirement, which in turn saves the company the frustration of hiring someone unable to do the job. Proficiency tests also help identify a candidate's strengths and weaknesses and help determine if additional training may be needed or if there is another position within the organization they may be better suited for.

Types

The way in which the company conducts the proficiency exam usually depends on the skills it seeks. Exams may be on the computer, particularly if a candidate is tested on his knowledge of a certain computer system or software. Some tests, such as a writing test, may be conducted with pen and paper. Sometimes the proficiency exam may only require a physical test, such as being able to lift heavy objects or a demonstration of teaching a fitness class.

Issues

While there are many benefits to employee proficiency testing, there are also drawbacks to conducting these types of exams. Purchasing proficiency tests can be expensive, and sifting through the results takes time, so testing may end up costing the company money and resources. In addition, if the tests are used to exclude a certain type of candidate, employers may run into some legal issues involving potential discrimination. Companies need to consider all factors when deciding if employee proficiency testing is right for them.

About the Author

Casey Anderson is a part-time writer and full-time marketer who has been published on websites such as Opposing Views and Salon. She has also contributed articles to local Detroit Magazines, Strut and Orbit. A Wayne State University Master of Business Administration graduate, Nation began her writing career in 2001 and has extensive experience in business and research writing.